In Štanjel, the oldest settlement in the Karst, every period of thousands of years of history has left its mark, and today’s distinctive image of Turn Hill was shaped back in the Middle Ages. The restored castle attracts attention with its magical scenery and offers visitors unforgettable cultural, historical and culinary experiences within its medieval walls.
Štanjel has for many years been an inspiration for many artists and today it offers a home to their works of art. At the forefront is the rich legacy of Lojze Spacal, today considered one of the most prominent artists in post-war Slovenia and Italy, and a world-renowned artist. The Lojze Spacal Gallery in Štanjel Castle is a temple of aesthetic experiences, where Spacal’s entire vision of the Karst unfolds before the visitor’s eyes.
Štanjel Castle hosts numerous art exhibitions throughout the year in the Fabiani Hall and other venues. The castle is happy to take initiatives from cultural creators and let them set up exhibitions in its rooms.
You can experience the unique cultural pulse of Štanjel by visiting many other small galleries.
The renovated premises of Štanjel Castle offer a unique setting for modern business meetings. Štanjel Castle can host business meetings in several halls that can accommodate small groups, as well as events for up to 120 people. In Štanjel, all business meetings can be enriched with authentic experiences and excellent cuisine, giving participants an unforgettable experience of the Karst.
Did you know that during archaeological research in Štanjel, the remains of grape seeds were found? This proves that vines were already being cultivated in this area in prehistoric times. The Vinoteka Grad Štanjel wine shop boasts the most extensive collection of Karst wines. Visit it and taste wines from the cross-border Karst region.
Stanjel Castle Tours
Welcome to the creative garden of Max Fabiani. One of the most important architects and urban planners of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Fabiani designed Villa Ferrari and its garden for his nephew from Trieste. He created a self-sufficient estate for work and leisure, for growing food, recycling waste and collecting rainwater. In doing so, he applied all his knowledge and a sustainable vision in which not a single drop of water went to waste.
Štanjel is a place of countless unique stories that enrich the experience of this one-of-a-kind medieval settlement. Get to know the architect Maks Fabiani and his works better, discover why flower wreaths hang on the front door of every house in the old village and much more.